Key Takeaways
- Complete the mandatory education course BEFORE applying (as of 2026)
- Application fee is \$21 (state filing fee)
- Must obtain a \$10,000 surety bond before commission is issued
- Apply through the SOS Notary Public Portal online
- Processing time is approximately 4-6 weeks
Last updated: January 2026
Texas Notary Application Process
The application process for becoming a Texas notary has changed significantly with SB693. As of January 1, 2026, education must be completed before applying.
Application Steps Overview
| Step | Action | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Complete SOS education course | First |
| 2 | Gather required information | After education |
| 3 | Submit online application | After education |
| 4 | Pay application fee ($21) | With application |
| 5 | Obtain $10,000 surety bond | After approval |
| 6 | Take oath of office | Final step |
| 7 | Receive commission | ~4-6 weeks total |
Step 1: Complete Education (NEW)
As of January 1, 2026:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Course provider | Texas Secretary of State only |
| Course length | Up to 2 hours |
| Topics covered | All notary duties and laws |
| Completion certificate | Save for records |
Step 2: Gather Required Information
You will need:
| Information | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Full legal name | Application |
| Texas residential address | Verification |
| Social Security Number | Background check |
| Date of birth | Age verification |
| Email address | Communications |
| Phone number | Contact |
Step 3: Submit Online Application
Apply through the SOS Notary Public Portal:
- Visit: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/statdoc/notary-public.shtml
- Create account or log in
- Complete application form
- Submit electronically
Step 4: Pay Application Fee
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| State filing fee | $21 |
| Payment method | Online (credit/debit) |
Step 5: Obtain Surety Bond
After your application is approved, you must obtain a bond:
| Bond Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Bond amount | $10,000 |
| Term | 4 years (matches commission) |
| Typical cost | ~$50 for 4 years |
| Issuer | Licensed surety company |
What the Bond Covers
The bond protects the public (not you):
| Covered | Not Covered |
|---|---|
| Damages from notary errors | Your personal financial losses |
| Claims from public | Your legal defense costs |
| Misconduct by notary | Intentional wrongdoing (may void coverage) |
Step 6: Take Oath of Office
Before you can notarize:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Oath administrator | County clerk or authorized officer |
| When | After receiving commission |
| Where | County of your residence |
| Record | Filed with county |
Step 7: Receive Commission
| Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Application submitted | Reviewed by SOS |
| Processing | ~4-6 weeks |
| Approval | Bond required |
| Bond filed | Commission issued |
| Oath taken | Can begin notarizing |
Total Costs Summary
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Education course | Fee set by SOS |
| Application fee | $21 |
| Surety bond | ~$50 |
| Seal/stamp | ~$20-50 |
| Journal | ~$15-30 |
| Total estimated | $120-170 |
Address Change - Important
If you move during your commission:
| Action | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Notify Secretary of State | Within 30 days |
| Update portal profile | Immediately |
| New seal NOT required | Unless commission details change |
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Test Your Knowledge
What is the application fee to become a Texas notary public?
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Test Your Knowledge
What must be completed BEFORE submitting a Texas notary application as of January 1, 2026?
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